Park City, Utah: A Weekend Travel Itinerary
Park City is a beautiful mountain town located in Summit County, Utah. It's known for its world-class skiing, but there are also plenty of other activities to enjoy year-round that are worth the travel for. Here's a breakdown of lodging options, the best things to do, including ski and non-skiing options, and some of the best coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and a weekend guide to help with your trip planning.
How to Get there
By Air
The closest airport to Park City is Salt Lake City International Airport, which is located about 35 miles away. There are several airlines that offer flights to Salt Lake City, including Delta, United, American, and Southwest. Once you arrive at the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle or taxi to Park City. Many hotels and resorts in Park City also offer airport transportation for their guests.
By Car
If you're driving to Park City, there are several major highways that lead to the town. From Salt Lake City, take I-80 East and exit at Kimball Junction. From there, it's a short drive to Park City. If you're driving from other parts of Utah or neighboring states, check Google Maps or another mapping service for the best route.
By Shuttle
There are several shuttle services that offer transportation from Salt Lake City International Airport to Park City. Some popular shuttle services include All Resort Express, Park City Transportation, and Canyon Transportation. You can book a shuttle in advance or at the airport when you arrive.
By Bus
If you're coming from Salt Lake City, you can take the Park City Transit bus, which offers service between Salt Lake City and Park City. The bus runs every day, and the fare is reasonable. You can also take the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) bus, which offers service to Park City from several cities in the Salt Lake Valley.
Where to Stay
Budget
The Prospector Lodge: This lodge offers affordable rooms with basic amenities, as well as a hot tub, sauna, and fitness center. It's located near Park City Mountain Resort and offers a free shuttle service to the slopes.
Chateau Apres Lodge: This cozy lodge offers affordable rooms with a ski-in/ski-out location in the heart of Park City. It's a great option for skiers and snowboarders who want to be close to the slopes without breaking the bank.
Moderate
Marriott's MountainSide: This resort offers spacious villas with full kitchens, as well as a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. It's located in the heart of Park City and is within walking distance of the slopes and downtown area.
The Lodges at Deer Valley: This mountain lodge offers cozy rooms and suites with fireplaces and kitchenettes, as well as a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. It's located near Deer Valley Resort and offers a free shuttle service to the slopes.
Luxury
Waldorf Astoria Park City: This luxurious hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with fireplaces, balconies, and mountain views, as well as a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. It's located at the base of Canyons Resort and offers ski-in/ski-out access.
Montage Deer Valley: This upscale resort offers elegant rooms and suites with fireplaces, balconies, and mountain views, as well as a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. It's located at the base of Deer Valley Resort and offers ski-in/ski-out access. The resort also has several restaurants, a spa, and a kids' club.
The Weekend Guide
Friday
3 pm: Check into your hotel and settle in. If you're staying at the Waldorf Astoria or Montage Deer Valley, take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service to get around town.
4 pm: Head to the Park City Mountain Resort and take a scenic gondola ride to the top of the mountain. You can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and take some photos of the stunning scenery.
6 pm: Grab dinner at Riverhorse on Main, an upscale restaurant that offers seasonal American cuisine. You can try dishes like the pan-seared scallops, the Kobe beef carpaccio, or the elk loin.
8 pm: After dinner, catch a show at the Egyptian Theatre, a historic theater that hosts live music, theater, and comedy performances. Check the schedule in advance to see what's playing during your visit.
Saturday
8 am: Start your day off with a cup of coffee at Atticus Coffee & Tea House, a cozy coffee shop with a great selection of drinks and snacks. You can try their famous chai latte, a pour-over coffee, or a fresh-baked pastry.
9 am: Hit the slopes! Park City Mountain Resort offers over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain, with runs for all levels, whether you prefer skiing or snowboarding. You can rent equipment on-site, take a lesson from a certified instructor, or explore the mountain on your own. If you're visiting during the summer, check out the wide variety of golf and mountain biking options nearby!
12 pm: Take a break for lunch at the Mid-Mountain Lodge, a cozy spot that offers delicious sandwiches, soups, and chili. You can warm up by the fireplace, enjoy the mountain views, and refuel for the rest of your day.
1 pm: After lunch, head over to the Utah Olympic Park and take a tour of the facilities. You can learn about the history of the 2002 Winter Olympics, see the ski jumps and bobsled track up close, and even try out some of the activities yourself. You can also check out the Alf Engen Ski Museum, which showcases the history of skiing in Utah.
4 pm: Relax at the hotel's spa or take a dip in the pool. Many of the hotels in Park City offer world-class spas and wellness facilities, where you can indulge in a massage, a facial, or a yoga class. Alternatively, you can unwind by the pool and soak up some sun.
6 pm: Dinner at Handle, a farm-to-table restaurant that offers creative dishes made from local ingredients. You can try dishes like the roasted cauliflower, the duck confit, or the wagyu beef tartare. They also have an extensive wine list and a great cocktail menu.
8 pm: Enjoy a night out at High West Distillery & Saloon, a western-themed bar that serves craft cocktails and whiskey flights. You can try some of their award-winning whiskey, learn about the distilling process, and enjoy live music or other entertainment. High West also offers tours of their distillery, which is located nearby.
Sunday
8 am: Grab breakfast at Five5eeds, a charming cafe that offers healthy and delicious options, including smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and baked goods. You can also try their signature "brekkie roll", which is a breakfast sandwich with egg, bacon, and cheddar cheese.
9 am: Hit the slopes again or try some non-skiing activities. If you're looking for something different, you can try snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or even a hot air balloon ride over the mountains.
12 pm: Lunch at Silver Star Cafe, a cozy spot that offers comfort food and live music. You can try dishes like the pulled pork sandwich, the chicken pot pie, or the blackened salmon salad. They also have a great selection of beer and wine.
2 pm: Explore Historic Main Street, which is lined with charming shops, galleries, and restaurants. You can browse for souvenirs, sample local chocolates and cheeses, or visit one of the many art galleries.
4 pm: Wrap up your weekend with a visit to the Utah Olympic Park again, this time to take a ride on the bobsled or the alpine slide. You can experience the thrill of hurtling down the track at high speeds, with the stunning mountain scenery as your backdrop.
6 pm: Dinner at Grappa, an Italian restaurant that offers classic dishes like pasta, pizza, and seafood. You can try dishes like the spaghetti carbonara, the seafood risotto, or the wood-fired pizza. They also have a great wine list and a cozy atmosphere.
8 pm: If you still have energy left, head to O.P. Rockwell, a stylish bar that hosts live music and other events. You can enjoy some cocktails, dance to the music, and soak up the Park City nightlife.
Park City, Utah is a great destination for a weekend getaway, with its stunning mountain scenery, world-class ski resorts, variety of places to stay, and charming downtown area. Whether you're a ski enthusiast or prefer non-skiing activities, you're sure to find plenty to do and see in this picturesque mountain town.
FAQ
What is the best time of year to visit Park City?
Park City, Utah is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're planning a ski trip or a summer vacation, the best time of year to visit Park City largely depends on your interests and preferences.
Winter is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit Park City, as it offers world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The ski season (depending on snow conditions) typically runs from late November to early April, with peak season falling between Christmas and Presidents' Day weekend. During this time, you can expect snow-covered mountains, festive holiday events, and a bustling nightlife scene.
If you're looking to avoid the crowds and score some deals, consider visiting Park City during the shoulder season. This includes late fall and early spring, when the weather is still cool but the crowds have thinned out. You can still enjoy skiing and snowboarding, as well as other winter activities like snowmobiling and snowshoeing.
Summer in Park City is also a great time to visit, with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. From hiking and mountain biking to golfing and fishing, there's something for everyone. The weather is warm and sunny, and the scenery is breathtaking. The summer season runs from June to September, with peak season falling between July and August.
Fall is another beautiful time to visit Park City, as the leaves change colors and the weather cools down. You can enjoy scenic drives, hiking, and mountain biking, as well as cultural events like the Park City Wine Festival and the Autumn Aloft.
What are the best attractions in Park City?
As a Park City local, I am always asked about the best attractions in the area. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there are endless options to explore in this beautiful mountain town. Here are some of my top recommendations:
1. Park City Mountain Resort: This world-renowned ski resort offers over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain and is home to the largest resort in the United States. With over 300 trails, 41 lifts, and a variety of terrain parks, there's something for every level of skier or snowboarder.
2. Historic Main Street: Take a stroll down Park City's charming Main Street, lined with historic buildings, art galleries, and boutique shops. Stop by the Park City Museum to learn about the town's mining history or catch a show at the renowned Egyptian Theatre.
3. Utah Olympic Park: Built for the 2002 Winter Olympics, this park now serves as a year-round training center for Olympic athletes and a thrilling adventure destination for visitors. Take a bobsled ride, zipline through the mountains, or watch athletes train on the ski jumps.
4. Wasatch State Park: Just a short drive from Park City, this state park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and golfing. The park's scenic views of the Wasatch Mountains make for an unforgettable day trip.
5. Sundance Film Festival: Every January, Park City hosts the world-renowned Sundance Film Festival, showcasing the best independent films from around the globe. With over 120,000 attendees and screenings at multiple venues, this festival is a must-see for film lovers.
6. High West Distillery: Located in a historic livery stable, High West Distillery offers award-winning whiskey and delicious food in a cozy atmosphere. Take a tasting tour and learn about the distilling process or enjoy a cocktail in the saloon-style bar.
7. Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter: This 1,200-acre nature preserve offers hiking trails, educational exhibits, and interactive programs for visitors of all ages. Learn about the local wildlife and ecosystems or take a guided snowshoe tour during the winter months.
8. Park City Golf Course: This public golf course offers stunning mountain views and challenging terrain for golfers of all levels. With 18 holes and a practice facility, it's the perfect place to spend a day on the greens.
What are the top restaurants in Park City?
Park City, Utah is known for its world-class skiing, picturesque mountain views, and high-end dining scene. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to dine. However, after much research and personal experience, I have compiled a list of the top restaurants in Park City.
1. Riverhorse on Main - This iconic restaurant has been a staple in Park City since 1987. It offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The menu features classic American cuisine with a modern twist.
2. The Mariposa - Located at Deer Valley Resort, The Mariposa is known for its elegant atmosphere and impeccable service. The cuisine is French-inspired with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
3. Handle - This restaurant offers a more casual dining experience with a focus on creative, contemporary American cuisine. The menu changes frequently to showcase the freshest seasonal ingredients.
4. Yuki Yama Sushi - For those craving sushi, Yuki Yama is a must-visit. The menu features traditional sushi rolls as well as unique creations incorporating local ingredients.
5. Grappa - This Italian-inspired restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with a focus on regional Italian cuisine. The menu features homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and an extensive wine list.
6. High West Distillery and Saloon - This unique dining experience combines a craft distillery with a Western-style saloon. The menu features elevated Western cuisine paired withtheir own handcrafted spirits. The atmosphere is lively and fun, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends.
7. Riverhorse Provisions - Another Riverhorse establishment, this gourmet market and café offers freshly baked pastries, artisan sandwiches, and a rotating selection of seasonal salads. It's the perfect spot for a quick bite or a picnic lunch.
8. Tupelo - This restaurant offers a unique blend of Southern comfort food and international cuisine. The menu changes frequently to showcase the freshest seasonal ingredients and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.
9. No Name Saloon - For a more laid-back dining experience, No Name Saloon is a must-visit. This iconic establishment has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike since 1903. The menu features classic American pub fare with a focus on burgers, wings, and craft beers. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with live music and a rooftop patio offering stunning views of Main Street.
10. Chimayo - This restaurant offers a taste of the Southwest with its classic New Mexican cuisine. The menu features dishes like green chile stew, carne adovada, and sopaipillas. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, with colorful decor and a lively bar area.
11. The Bridge Cafe and Grill - Located at the base of the Town Lift, The Bridge Cafe and Grill is a perfect spot for a pre- or post-ski meal. The menu features classic American comfort food with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with a fireplace and rustic decor.
12. Shabu - For a unique and interactive dining experience, Shabu is a must-visit. This Japanese-style hot pot restaurant allows diners to cook their own meats and vegetables at the table. The menu features high-quality meats and fresh vegetables, as well as a selection of sushi and sashimi. The atmosphere is intimate and cozy, with dim lighting and a modern decor.